Post-Nuptial Agreements Solicitors in Wigan

What is a Post-Nuptial Agreement

A post-nuptial agreement is an agreement made between two people after their marriage or civil partnership has taken place. It sets out the parties' assets at the time of the agreement and how those should be divided on the breakdown of the relationship.

More and more couples these days are entering into these arrangements; it is a sensible precaution and may well cut down on uncertainty and animosity at a difficult time.

Is a post nuptial agreement legally binding?

No. Although legally binding in certain countries a post-nuptial agreement is not legally binding in the UK. If the court is involved in resolving a couples finances following the breakdown of the relationship and where there is a post-nuptial agreement, the court will have regard to it and may uphold the terms provided certain criteria were fulfilled:-

  • Each party should take independent legal advice
  • Both parties should give to the other full and frank disclosure of their financial positions
  • The agreement should be entered into freely by both parties without any undue pressure or influence.
  • The court is more likely to uphold the agreement if the terms are realistic and fair

It is important to review a post-nuptial agreement to keep it effective. The circumstances when the agreement is made are likely to change as time passes. Children may be born, one party may cease work, there may be illness or other unforeseen events. What may appear fair at the outset of the marriage may not be the same as what a court would regard as fair at a later date. The court is more likely to take account of an agreement that is relevant to the circumstances at the time of the relationship breakdown.

Contact Us

If you think you might need a post-nuptial agreement or would like to discuss the matter with us, our family law team can be contacted by phone on 01942 246241. At your first appointment with us, we will explain any areas of concern. Our charges are competitive and we will be able to provide an indication of the likely cost of preparing an agreement for you at our initial meeting.